Website ranks SLU animation in top 15

Website ranks SLU animation in top 15

Photo provided by SLU --Southeastern Louisiana University Associate Professor of Art John Valentino, left, discusses a project with senior Stanley Alexis, of LaPlace, who is studying in the new media and animation program. The program was recently rated one of the best in the South by Animation Career Review.

The New Media and Animation program at Southeastern Louisiana University has been honored for the second consecutive year by Animation Career Review as one of the top 15 animation and game design schools in the South, a news release from the university says.

Initiated a few years ago in the university’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts, the program was ranked 15th by the website. Last year, Animation Career Review ranked Southeastern’s program 20th.

“This second honor in as many years is a fitting tribute to the faculty and students in our New Media and Animation program,” said Kenneth Boulton, interim head of the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. “It also reflects Southeastern’s overall commitment to curricula that is current, relevant and engaging.”

ACR formulates its rankings by considering academic reputation, feedback from industry firms on which programs they value, the depth and breadth of the program, and geographic proximity to the industry’s leading firms, the release says. The full review of the top programs in the South can be found at animationcareerreview.com.

Associate Professor John Valentino said the computer studios and other equipment available for student use are among the best, providing students with valuable experience that easily translates into workforce skills. The program, he said, combines artistic talent with technical proficiency.

“Louisiana’s tax incentives are attracting an increasing number of firms that use the skills our students are developing,” said Valentino, who teaches many of the courses in the program. “Our graduates are helping to fill these workforce needs.”